Manitoba gets its own Highway of Heroes

A sign marking Manitoba's Highway of Heroes is unveiled Friday near St. Francois Xavier on the Trans-Canada Highway. (Claudine Richard-Beaudoin/CBC)

Manitoba has joined the list of provinces that have a Highway of Heroes.

Premier Greg Selinger joined representatives of the Canadian Forces and the Royal Canadian Legion on Friday to unveil a sign designating a big stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway west of Winnipeg with the name.

"For over 100 years, thousands of Manitobans have served our country with unwavering commitment, dedication and bravery," said Selinger.

"The designation of this highway is one way we honour their legacy and sacrifice, and recognize the pride and profound thanks of all Manitobans to the women and men of our Canadian Forces."

The Highway of Heroes covers some 180 kilometres of road between Winnipeg and Canadian Forces Base Shilo near Brandon.

Markers located just west of Winnipeg and east of Brandon on the Trans-Canada Highway feature the iconic red poppy at the top and the Highway of Heroes name in both official languages on a blue background.

In 2007, the Ontario government renamed a stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway between Trenton and Toronto the highway of heroes.

It has been lined with crowds whenever a military member killed in Afghanistan is transported home via CFB Trenton.